iPad 2, Android and future of tabletsWith the release of the iPad 2 I am again wondering what direction Trimble is looking if to follow the popular growing market of tablets. I realize that the rugged devices are best suited for outdoor work but see a growing market of these consumer/ business tablets.
Is Trimble looking at the iPad or andoid type market?
For reference because of the equipment I use;
4700 Ipaq in an Otterbox with Farmworks Mobile - user for many years
Dell Mini 9 Netbook
iPad with Otterboxhttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,63241#msg-63241Tue, 31 Mar 2015 16:31:45 -0400Phorum 5.2.7http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68673#msg-68673Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68673#msg-68673Duane AndersonField - HardwareSat, 29 Sep 2012 08:00:47 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68651#msg-68651Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68651#msg-68651[www.connectedfarm.com]

This app is designed for GPS mapping and scouting utilizing the GPS in your phone or tablet. It works with Android and iPhone and tablets. It is a free app that you can get off the store.

At present data can be viewed in connectedfarm.com An upcoming release of Farm Works will support being to download the data into Farm Works.]]>Scott NusbaumField - HardwareThu, 27 Sep 2012 16:11:28 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68649#msg-68649Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68649#msg-68649Paul CampbellField - HardwareThu, 27 Sep 2012 15:31:20 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68451#msg-68451Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68451#msg-68451Local weather forecastAs well as the ability to pull this weather data automatically and place it into a job.]]>cewwrisleyField - HardwareThu, 30 Aug 2012 19:06:24 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68272#msg-68272Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68272#msg-68272I am sure that there are other features that I would want as I get into mobile records further. Obviously the more functionality, the better, however from my experience with other programs if they are cluttered and hard to navigate it gets frustrating. One possibility would be a modular system where the end user could add groups of features as needed, (ex, field, stock, equipment, financials, etc.) these could also be stand alone apps that can share info if that would be easier than one modular app.

I don't know a lot about the programming end of this, so I am not sure what is actually possible. I want to have everything on the desktop program available on a tablet. I do realize that is not possible so I would rather see the program do what it does well, rather than do a lot of different things poorly.

I will post more thoughts as I think about it more]]>Cliff SteigerField - HardwareWed, 01 Aug 2012 09:16:40 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68271#msg-68271Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68271#msg-68271Scott NusbaumField - HardwareWed, 01 Aug 2012 07:17:38 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68270#msg-68270Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68270#msg-68270Scott NusbaumField - HardwareWed, 01 Aug 2012 07:14:05 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68238#msg-68238Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68238#msg-68238We have used the mate products for years and the prospect of not having to try and keep a pda with me and functional, by replacing it with a device i always use is very exciting to me.

I would hate to leave farm works, we have been using it for almost 10 years now, however if it doesnt evolve to met the way that business is done these days i might have to start looking elseware. Ill still need the PC and want them to interact in a "cloud" type of setting as well.]]>tdcombsField - HardwareThu, 26 Jul 2012 10:56:18 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68214#msg-68214Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,68214#msg-68214Cloud based systems would be problematic in our area. In the mountain foothills there are many pockets where there is no cell service. In many cases one half of a farm will have service and the other half wont, or will have poor service and data rates are prohibitively slow.

It would also be nice to be able to take data directly from the FM-750 and 1000 to the tablet, then I wouldn't have to worry about loosing a USB stick.

What Application/Functionality would you look for:- Field RecordsHistoric and new for importing into Office- Mapping Boundaries/Paths/Points- Scouting- Other (Specify)]]>cewwrisleyField - HardwareThu, 19 Jul 2012 15:56:49 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,67992#msg-67992Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,67992#msg-67992Cliff SteigerField - HardwareSun, 10 Jun 2012 00:14:27 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,67815#msg-67815another vote for Apple compatible productshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,67815#msg-67815We've had Android products and the Apple's are much more stable, they don't lock up on us, they just work day in and day out. Same thing for the desktop computers.]]>Ray BrunkerField - HardwareSun, 20 May 2012 19:07:19 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,67230#msg-67230Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,67230#msg-67230RL (Bob) NielsenField - HardwareWed, 28 Mar 2012 22:11:44 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,66866#msg-66866Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,66866#msg-66866With a new cropping year quickly approaching, I was wondering about the status of Farm Works Mobile for an android operating system. I've been using Farm Works for 6 years and have really had good luck. I find myself disgruntled however that an app to at least keep track of some aspects of my farming operation have not been released. It is beyond my knowledge of what happens "behind the scenes" at Farm Works so I will not assume that nothing is being done. I do know that your team is evaluating all options. My question is if there is any information as to a timeline or anything along those lines. I find myself evaluating other software options moving into the future. Any kind of word of a plan to implement this technology, even if it's in the near future, would help put my mind at ease. Thank you for your help in this matter.]]>doerrjtField - HardwareFri, 24 Feb 2012 17:07:44 -0500http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,66605#msg-66605Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,66605#msg-66605I would love to use FW mobile with this.

While I am waiting, I have a problem with the nomad and yuma, ect. They stink to carry around all the time. Does mobile work with windows phone?]]>lanwickumField - HardwareMon, 06 Feb 2012 10:38:14 -0500http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,66604#msg-66604Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,66604#msg-66604I would love to use FW mobile with this.

While I am waiting, I have a problem with the nomad and yuma, ect. They stink to carry around all the time. Does mobile work with windows phone?]]>lanwickumField - HardwareMon, 06 Feb 2012 10:34:35 -0500http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,65895#msg-65895Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,65895#msg-65895Is there a method to run the current version of FW on a partitioned MAC or with a program that simulates the Windows OS? When this laptop gives up I sure would like to avoid having to replace it with another Windows based computer.

I find that I have an increasing need to access my farm records from the field. The real "cat's meow" would be utilizing something like the "Cotton Candy" device that could be plugged into the GreenStar 2600 to run the full suite of FW from the tractor cab or iPad. Having a dedicated OS for running the FW software on any capable device would revolutionize the mobile record keeping world. Just imagine carrying a small device in your pocket that you could plug into the tractor controller while in the field and then plug it back into the desktop when in the office and be able to have your entire set of farm records with you at all time. Also being able to plug it into the iPad or iPhone when in the pickup or shop for the same purpose. Printing to a wireless printer from the iPad & iPhone works well and would make doing business on the go completely portable for the average farmer.

Edit: I just found an app for the iPhone that solves much of my need for the Christmas list! www.teamviewer.com

This app allows me to remotely view and control my computer from my iPhone (iPad) and run Farmworks while in the tractor. Now I'm going to have to mount the wife's iPad in the cab I guess.]]>John R JonesField - HardwareSun, 11 Dec 2011 18:25:02 -0500http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,64759#msg-64759Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,64759#msg-64759Variable Rate Application, and Crop Sensing technology is starting to take off in Australia, and having software that can be taken out into the field for ground truthing/scouting, on "affordable" phones/tablets would of great benefit.RegardsLeigh Bryan]]>Leigh BryanField - HardwareWed, 10 Aug 2011 03:14:03 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,64587#msg-64587Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,64587#msg-64587I would see myself running an android type farmworks product that is part app and part cloudware. I would not rule out the apple route but in my opinion there is a lot more andoid products that would be available (unless apple gets their way on some of their lawsuites that is trying to ban imports of some major andoid tablets trying to hit the markets).

I think I also will be utilizing the wireless tethering capabilities certain times of the year so I can use my laptop, netbook, ipad or ipaq on the internet also.

My thumbs up for android.]]>Duane AndersonField - HardwareSun, 03 Jul 2011 08:39:23 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,64582#msg-64582Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,64582#msg-64582Ryan]]>INFarmboyField - HardwareFri, 01 Jul 2011 08:25:23 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,64523#msg-64523Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,64523#msg-64523I currently use the IPAD2 for internet access and reference materials in the field. I see this platform asa major game changer. It would really be nice to see FarmWorks software as an app.I would envision that field notes could be taken and emailed to my clients. I also have a company website (cedarbasin.com) that I access daily for client info and other ag related links.

I completely understand & respect on why you cannot share what is in development. I used to work in the test department for Deere...so, I can relate. :)But if you are looking for a 'proving ground' & test personnel to test out a prototype mobile software product...I am sure I could convince my wife for me to use her shiny new iPad out in the middle of a muddy field somewhere...on the other hand, maybe not. :)

Enjoy your day,Paul]]>Paul RaymerField - HardwareTue, 26 Apr 2011 16:50:50 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,63958#msg-63958Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,63958#msg-63958Thank you so much for your comments! They actually echo what I am hearing from a lot of people. As a part of a public company, I'm unable to comment on our specific development plans. However, the advantage that Trimble has is that we have resources in a lot of different areas that can help us with a project such as this. Your comments do make sense!

Thanks again!Scott]]>Scott NusbaumField - HardwareTue, 26 Apr 2011 15:57:42 -0400http://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,63949#msg-63949Re: iPad 2, Android and future of tabletshttp://www.farmworks.com/uk/forum/read.php?5,63241,63949#msg-63949This is my first time in the forum. I thank Joanne's encouragement to send me here and its nice I have a few minutes to spend here.

Thanks for asking the question for popularity input on mobile device platforms...maybe its too late now to respond? If not, I have some to share:

I have voiced this some of input before but, I am an Apple fan - the new iPad 2 is a beautiful device (my wife saved up and bought one). On the GPS side for thisdevice, I don't the ins & outs of it, but it (and many other mobile devices) do a really good job with depicting location via cell triangulation.An Apple version of FW applications would a dream of mine come true. :) That has been me - I know the Apple computer population in the ag community isn't that large, but it is growing. We have had a couple farmers ask about a Mac desktop version in the past year.

Android - is definitely picking up popularity around us. That is one OS I haven't experienced a lot of yet. All I have heard is positive and nothing negative. One savvy farmer we know whom is in our area, he is a iPhone user...he told me the other day that his next phone will be an Android. He liked the features in the interface much better.

Blackberry - always a constant request from our customers - the reason why it is a constant request is because there are we have so many customers whom use Blackberry as their phone. What I am starting to notice is that since RIM (Blackberry manufacturer) is now really experiencing competition in the mobile market place - farmers whom once had a Blackberry, now own an iPhone, or an Android, etc.With RIM's new release of its Blackberry Playbook, it will be interesting to see if the ag community jumps aboard on it. My uncle (whom is a large grower) just bought a Playbook last week.

The question I raise is - with this mobile market place changing so rapidly, how does Farm Works/Trimble plan to stay abreast with being flexible and compatible with each OS platform?

Is the answer a 'cloud based' solution? To me, that definitely sounds the simplest - and I am sure it could also marry well with Connected Farm in the future - data being stored on a 'cloud' server as opposed to locally...?? I guess the next question/challenge is since 'cloud based' is so dependent on cell coverage - that could be a real gap in some key market regions? But then, on the other hand, I am sure cell coverages are improving every year.

I know I 'spit' out a lot here, but, I thought I would share what I am seeing at this point in time. It could be different next week on how fast things are changing. :)